bimmer568

On a budget and have been debating ordering a '09 335i E90 and a '10 528i, both with ZMP. Looking to pull the trigger in 2-3 weeks.

Test drove the 335i...love the power and WOW factor (amazing engine) but the seats are tight for me and interior space felt a bit cramped. I'm 6'4" 230lbs. For almost the same price I could purchase a similarly equipped 528. I'd give up the WOW factor but would gain more space, more comfortable seats, etc.

I'm also thinking longer term. With 2 young kids (5 and 3) the 5er seems the "logical" choice as I tend to keep my cars for a long time. (Still have a mint condition '95 Lemans blue E36 vert). I love the look of the M-Sport but I'm conflicted as to whether putting the ZMP package on a 528 gives the impression I'm trying to pass a 528 off as a 550, which wouldn't be the case. I would not debadge the car.

The sport suspension with the multi-contour seats makes for a great rise. Getting ZSP vs. ZMP is an option but I'd loose out on the uniqueness of the m-sport aerodynamics. FWIW I priced a 535 w/ regular ZSP sport package and it busted my budget. :thumbsdown:

Am I being too rational in my decision process? Head says 528, heart says 335.

craigm1841

i think you are being rational, but why not look at a 535???

bimmer568

Looked at the 535 but it's more than I want to spend. Power would be great but I can't justify 80 horses for $5k.

craigm1841

are you looking at being able to mod the car. the 535 (or 335) can easily make about 380-400 HP for about 600-700 bucks. I think you should go with the bigger car (but my inner child is telling me to tell you 335)

-Mike-

I had an 06 330i 4 door before my e60. Even with 4 doors, the car is CRAMPED. And you are a big dude...I'm 5' 10" 185lbs and it was ok for me and my wife, but the rear seats are pretty useless, especially for carting around kids.

I have a toddler, and he fits back there with plenty of room to spare. It's a bigger, and IMO, safer vehicle.

All that aside, you'd have to like the e60 body style. I needed some time, but now I totally LOVE it. Adding the msport option is just icing on the cake man. I am still dreaming of adding the mtech kit to my car....but it's just that right now.

Given your situation, I vote for the e60. You just can't go wrong. Yeah, the 335 might be a little stronger, but check out the room back there. I think after giving it a go, you'll agree.

Good luck!

craigm1841

actually, i didnt even add this... i should have. i had an 09 328 loaner. it sucked. the build quality is pitiful compared to the 5 series, and i am 6'2" and i was cramped. Sorry... should have said this from the start.

skeeter

You'll never fit in the 335...You have to go with the 5 series...Try to bargin and see if they can work a better deal on a new 535...

forced528

I will never argue against the 535 since it has tremendous power. I myself, wanted one.

However, my 6 speed manual 528i with sports package is a lot of fun to drive. No it's not as fast as the 535. But the manual tranny is a fun drive. The money I saved went to my mods which make this whole experience fun. Little mods brings little fun.

Just my 2 cents. Good luck.

Gene

get the 535i, best of both worlds...


it's worth the extra money (which isn't that much if you break it down monthly, even daily)

Frank5er

Have you considered buying a used(from lease return) 550i?